Mercedes-Benz SL-Class vs Audi RSQ8
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular cars compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class starts from $239,900 before on-road costs, while the Audi RSQ8 opens at $239,900. Both land at the same RRP, so on-road costs and dealer deals become the real differentiator.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $263,890 and $263,890 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and Audi RSQ8 hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. Both models are evenly matched with 6 out of 10 key ADAS systems.
Both include the essentials: autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, Burmester audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Audi RSQ8. The Audi RSQ8 counters with Apple CarPlay, ventilated seats, power tailgate and Bang & Olufsen audio. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class uses a Petrol producing 220kW and 400Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a RWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 5.1 seconds.
The Audi RSQ8 responds with a Petrol making 463kW and 800Nm, paired to a 8-speed auto driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 3.6 seconds.
The Audi RSQ8 has the clear power advantage at 463kW vs 220kW. In the real-world sprint, the Audi RSQ8 is 1.5s quicker. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class measures 4,705mm long on a 2,700mm wheelbase, 307mm shorter than the Audi RSQ8 at 5,012mm (2,998mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Audi RSQ8 generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 213L in the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and 605L in the Audi RSQ8, giving the Audi RSQ8 a 392L advantage. The Audi RSQ8 seats 5 vs 2.
0Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
11.6m diameter
Average
Based on 11.6m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,565/year for the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and $2,394/year for the Audi RSQ8. That is a $171 annual difference in favour of the Audi RSQ8.
Estimated annual total: $2,565 (Mercedes-Benz SL-Class) vs $2,394 (Audi RSQ8). The Audi RSQ8 saves you roughly $171 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz SL-Class) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Audi RSQ8). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class if: You or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Audi RSQ8 if: You prioritise performance, need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Audi's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Audi RSQ8 takes 5 of 5 key spec categories. The Audi RSQ8 will save you roughly $171 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Audi RSQ8 has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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